Flight One Knowledge Base Article

FOSA Course Information: Course Comparison – Single Diploma (CPL-A) vs Double Diploma (CPL-A + IR)

(slug: compare-single-vs-double-diploma)

Overview

Choosing between the Single Diploma (CPL-A only) and the Double Diploma (CPL-A + Instrument Rating) can significantly affect your training path, financial planning, and career timeline. This guide outlines the key differences to help domestic students make an informed decision.

Official course pages:

Key Differences at a Glance

FeatureSingle DiplomaDouble Diploma
Qualification(s)AVI50222AVI50222 + AVI50519
Duration~52 weeks~82 weeks
Instrument Rating❌ Not Included✅ Included
Aircraft UsedSingle-EngineSingle + Multi-Engine
Cirrus Included❌ Not Included✅ Included
VET Student Loans✅ Eligible✅ Eligible
CASA Licence OutcomeCPL-ACPL-A + MECIR
CostLower overallHigher, but broader qualification
Career ReadinessCharter & entry-levelBroader job eligibility, faster to airline/cadetship

Why Choose the Single Diploma?

The CPL-A only program is ideal if:

After graduating, you can always return later to complete the IR diploma separately.

See: Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL-A)

Why Choose the Double Diploma?

The integrated Double Diploma is better suited if:

See: Double Diploma (CPL-A + IR)

Financial Considerations

Both programs are eligible for VET Student Loans (VSL).
Loan caps may differ and additional costs (medical, ASIC, exams) apply to both.

More details:

Career Pathway Implications

GoalRecommended Path
Aerial survey, tourism, VFR jobsSingle Diploma
Multi-crew ops, cadetships, IFR rolesDouble Diploma
Airline or instructor pathwayDouble Diploma (faster)

See: How to Become an Airline Pilot

FAQs

Can I upgrade later from the Single to Double?

Yes — you can enrol in the IR diploma separately after completing the CPL-A, however, it is less efficient and may result in increased duration and cost.

Are the aircraft and instructors the same?

Yes. Flight One uses the same high-quality instructors and aircraft fleet across both programs.

Do both options start at the same level?

Yes. Both programs assume no prior flight experience and begin with CASA-aligned foundational training.

Related Guides

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Flight One Australia Pty Ltd* ABN 73 010 428 805
t/a Flight One School of Aviation
RTO 31285 | CRICOS 01302M

Flight One Education Pty Ltd ABN 77 616 020 485
t/a Flight One School of Engineering
RTO 45165 | CASA.MTO.0048

*RTO Notice: Use of the VET Student Loans Scheme (optional) for VSL approved courses offered by Flight One Australia Pty Ltd [RTO 31285] are subject to eligibility and creates a debt that must be repaid to the Commonwealth. Training is delivered in conjunction with third party providers, Flight Two Pty Ltd t/a Flight One (CASA.141 FTO.0129 | ABN 12 137 904 771) and (CPL-H) V2 Helicopters Flight Training Pty Ltd (CASA.141 FTO.0234 | ABN 47 634 551 563). VSL is not offered for courses provided by Flight One Education Pty Ltd [RTO 45165]
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